Mr. President, 
Excellencies,

I have the honour to speak on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) on this important occasion.

CARICOM wishes to express its sincere appreciation to the Republic of Iraq for its stewardship and dedication over the past year. We commend the efforts undertaken to advance the work of the Group, promote dialogue among members, and uphold the principles of cooperation and multilateralism within the United Nations system.

Throughout the year, Iraq played a constructive role in fostering consensus, ensuring continuity in the Group’s work, and amplifying the collective voice of developing countries across key areas, including sustainable development, climate action, financing for development, and social inclusion. CARICOM values the spirit of engagement and collaboration demonstrated during this period.

Mr. President,

CARICOM also warmly welcomes the Oriental Republic of Uruguay and extends its congratulations as it assumes this important responsibility. We look forward to working closely and constructively with Uruguay in the year ahead, guided by our shared commitment to unity, inclusivity, solidarity, and effective multilateral action.

The Caribbean Community stands ready to support efforts aimed at strengthening coordination within the Group, advancing common positions, and ensuring that the priorities and concerns of developing countries—particularly small island developing States—are adequately reflected in ongoing negotiations and deliberations.

At this pivotal moment, CARICOM reiterates the continued relevance of collective platforms such as this one, which provide an essential space for dialogue, cooperation, and coordinated action among developing countries.

In this spirit, we reaffirm our commitment to constructive engagement and partnership, and we look forward to working together to advance shared objectives in the year ahead.

Thank you, Mr. President.